Today’s gathering celebrating the National Day of the Kingdom of Spain is also an occasion to reaffirm the longstanding relations that exist between our countries.
The various Grandmasters of the Order hailing from the Spanish peninsula, and more so the two monumental Auberges of Castille and Aragon, both of them still functioning as part of the seats of Government, are enough evidence that the connections between Malta and Spain predate 7 June 1968, when after independence diplomatic relations between the two countries came into being.
Today, Malta and Spain enjoy excellent diplomatic relations, built on a shared Mediterranean and European identity, and underpinned by the principles of equality and respect.
These solid foundations have contributed to the development of an enduring friendship which has culminated in the signing of numerous bilateral agreements covering various sectors.
The dynamic and diverse trade between our countries is a living testament to the closeness of our relationship, as the imports and exports of goods and services between Malta and Spain continue to thrive across diverse sectors.
Malta attaches great importance to the promotion of business ties between Malta and Spain. We encourage all measures aimed at bolstering them and welcome all initiatives that seek to bring increased interaction between our respective commercial stakeholders.
There are several promising areas for enhanced cooperation, particularly in the fields of education, the automotive and manufacturing sectors, and Research and Development (R&D).
Additionally, Malta’s strengths in research and development and innovation can support joint technological ventures. Our countries also share strategic interests in the Blue Economy, including fisheries, aquaculture, maritime services, and port infrastructure, all areas that can offer further avenues for cooperation.
The fact that Malta and Spain are well-connected, greatly facilitates such exchanges, and encourages people-to-people contacts, as reflected in recent tourism figures. We must strive to maintain this level of connectivity, and to increase the frequency of direct links wherever possible.
Culture, an area which is a source of great pride for both our countries, also benefits significantly from better connectivity.
In this regard, I am pleased to note the significant increase in the number of Spanish artists who have exhibited their works in Malta in the last few years, and vice-versa. Events such as the Malta Arts Biennale, and the UNESCO organized Mondiacult Conference hosted in Barcelona, play a fundamental role in elevating the role of culture in global policy and giving our artists the right platforms to showcase their art.
I also extend my appreciation to the flamenco dancers and musicians who will be providing tonight’s entertainment. I am sure that this spectacle will offer us a glimpse into the heart and soul of Spain, and its vibrant traditions.
Moreover, twinning initiatives between Maltese and Spanish towns – like those between Żejtun and Tocina; Għarb and Torrent; Marsaskala and Altea; Mdina and Zaragoza; and Victoria and Jerez de la Frontera – serve as another important bridge between our nations.
Malta and Spain also have a convergent outlook on European and international affairs. This shared vision is shaped by our Mediterranean identity, and an unwavering commitment to the principles of security, stability, and solidarity among nations.
Our countries cooperate closely on a wide range of issues for a more closely integrated Euro-Mediterranean region by promoting multi-sectoral cooperation in our neighbourhood, including through initiatives such as the Pact for the Mediterranean; as well as other Mediterranean-related regional fora, such as the Union for the Mediterranean, the MED9, and the 5+5 Dialogue to promote these ideals and put the spotlight emerging trends that are of particular concern to our region.
At the international level, we work closely within the United Nations, fully cognisant of the need for collective action and solutions to address the global challenges of our time in a timely and effective manner.
Geopolitical tensions around the globe remain a matter of grave concern, and we can no longer think of war and conflict as isolated and contained pockets of hostility.
In recent years, many conflicts have had ripple effects on the global economy, as well as on food and energy security. They are also posing a direct threat to international law and the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, putting the international framework in jeopardy.
Against this backdrop of uncertainty, Malta and Spain have been principled and consistent in their messages.
Both our countries have repeatedly expressed our deep concern on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and condemned continued settler violence in the West Bank.
We have never stopped advocating for a two-State solution in the Middle East, tangibly supporting our belief that this is the only path to a just and lasting peace by our recognition of the State of Palestine.
We have reaffirmed our full and unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders as Russia persists with its unjustified aggression.
We have expressed our deep concern at the escalation in and around Iran, as tensions continue to have a destabilising effect on other countries in the region and beyond.
This situation is also affecting merchant vessels going through the Strait of Hormuz and is consequently having a negative impact on global shipping.
The volatile and highly charged political climate we are living in clearly underscores the need for more balanced discourse and measured tones.
If we are to effectively address the growing insecurity facing our world, this is a time that calls for constructive ideas and workable solutions, not for inflammatory rhetoric.
Climate change needs to be given the urgent attention it truly merits; it cannot be managed by individual countries through national policies alone. It is an existential threat that has to be tackled by the international community as a whole. Climate change is a risk multiplier of insecurity, even exacerbating irregular migration.
As frontline Mediterranean states, Malta and Spain are fully aware of the humanitarian tragedies that irregular migration brings with it.
As a fellow Mediterranean nation, we express our full support for Spain and the people of Ceuta, and reaffirm our belief that these challenges are best addressed through solidarity, cooperation and a common European approach.
Ladies and gentlemen
I once again extend my thanks to Ambassador Alvarez De La Rosa Rodriguez for hosting us this evening. I thank you for all the work that you have carried out during your first months as Spain’s Ambassador to Malta.
Malta looks forward to continue strengthening its relations with Spain in the years to come.